If you are missing one or more teeth and want a beautiful new smile, dental implants are a permanent and natural-looking alternative to traditional bridges and dentures. Carter S. Yokoyama, D.D.S., in Kailua-Kona, HI, provides patients with these artificial tooth roots, which are made of durable and lightweight titanium, to support a porcelain prosthesis or bridge of artificial teeth. If you have a healthy jaw and gums, dental implants may be the right option for you. 

If you are avoiding tooth replacement because you do not want bridges or dentures, dental implants can improve your smile without daily inconvenience or discomfort. Since titanium implants take the place of your original tooth root, they provide natural-looking porcelain teeth and last for many years. 

Patients who are healthy enough for oral surgery and have the jawbone to affix the implants are usually good candidates. If the patient has medical problems, periodontal disease, or not enough jawbone available, your dentist may delay service or request additional dental care treatment before surgery for implants may begin.

When receiving implants, depending on your individual needs, you will receive local or general anesthesia. Then, your dentist will insert the titanium tooth root implant into your bone socket and anchor it securely. If you need multiple implants, they will usually be inserted at the same time. Once this process is complete, you will return home and allow the implant to heal for about 12 weeks.

At the next appointment, a porcelain tooth will be connected to the implant to provide you with your new smile. Dental care for your implants is the same as your regular teeth, which includes a daily brushing and flossing routine and regular checkups at the dentist’s office. If you have questions about dental implants and if they are right for you, talk to your provider. 

To make an appointment to discuss dental implants, call Carter S. Yokoyama, D.D.S., in Kailua-Kona at (808) 322-0101. For information about their restorative and cosmetic dentistry treatments, visit their website.